NCAA responds to Tom Izzo criticism about recruiting G-League players

London Johnson spent three seasons in the NBA G-League, but committed to play college basketball at Louisville on Monday. He’ll have two years of eligibility remaining once he hits the floor for the Cardinals. 

His commitment led to many questioning how this could even be possible. Michigan State head Tom Izzo revealed that he wasn’t even aware Johnson was being recruited to play college ball. He didn’t hold back when discussing the matter with media earlier this week.

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“This just goes to show you how ridiculous people that are in power make decisions,” Izzo said. “And I’m going to get killed because someone’s going to say, ‘Well, if they go pro, it doesn’t work out. Shouldn’t they be able to come back?’ Well, what about the freshmen you recruited there? That’s somebody’s son, and he thinks he’s got himself a good place. And all of a sudden, shazam. They pull out of their hat and bring a 21 or 22 year old in.”

“To me, it’s ridiculous. To me, it’s embarrassing. And I love my job. I don’t respect my profession, and I don’t respect whoever made those decisions.”

Izzo, who was soon joined in solidarity by UConn head coach Dan Hurley and Baylor head coach Scott Drew, received a response from the NCAA regarding the situation on Friday.

NCAA memo to members on eligibility. Comes in the wake of college basketball’s reaction to G-League players committing to schools. pic.twitter.com/ns9ITDyMsU

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“More schools are recruiting and enrolling individuals who have competed professionally – including many with experience in international and domestic leagues who may find college sports more appealing given the financial benefits now available,” the statement reads. “NCAA rules do allow players who competed professionally prior to collegiate enrollment to retain eligibility for college sports, though in some cases, players may lose seasons of eligibility due to delayed enrollment.”

“Each player’s situation is unique, and these issues arise at a time when NCAA eligibility rules are facing repeated lawsuits with judges enjoining some of these rules. In making its eligibility decisions, the NCAA endeavors to treat prospective student-athletes, whether domestic or international, as consistently as possible given the broad range of backgrounds that can be presented.”

“These cases are likely to continue, and this uncertainty underscores the importance of our collaboration with Congress to resolve conflicting judicial decisions that serve to deprive high school athletes of the ability to compete and create unfair competitive environments for current college athletes.”

“Schools seeking information about the eligibility of their recruits should continue coordinating with the NCAA Eligibility Center.”